How the 2026 NHL Draft Order looks after the lottery results
The 2025–26 NHL season has been a reminder of just how quickly things can change across the league. A few teams that entered the year with playoff expectations couldn’t find consistency, while others leaned fully into rebuilding and player development. The result is a draft order that feels like a snapshot of the NHL in transition—where timelines, not just talent, define where teams end up.
Clubs like the San Jose Sharks and Chicago Blackhawks have stayed the course, prioritizing youth and long-term growth as they continue to climb out of rebuilds. Meanwhile, teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers landing in the non-playoff group would point to seasons where expectations simply weren’t met—whether due to injuries, inconsistency, or roster imbalance. MORE: Maple Leafs win 2026 NHL Draft Lottery, will pick number 1 overall What stands out most is how tightly packed the middle tier has become.
Several teams hovered around the playoff line deep into the season, only to fall short in the final stretch. That makes this draft order especially meaningful. It’s not just about adding prospects—it’s about defining the next step, whether that’s pushing back into contention or resetting for the future.
1. Toronto Maple Leafs Apr 15, 2026; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Luke Haymes (43) skates in the second period against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-IMAGN Images Regular season record: 32-36-14 If Toronto somehow ends up here, it means something went seriously wrong in a season where they’re usually a 100+ point team.
With all their offensive firepower, missing the playoffs would likely come down to defense or goaltending issues. The upside? A rare chance to grab a franchise-changing prospect.
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